As we age, medications, supplements, and herbs are vital tools in maintaining our overall health and well-being. However, using these substances can easily become confusing, especially when taking multiple medications at once or battling Alzheimer’s or dementia. For seniors aging in place, it is crucial that medications are understood, tracked, and correctly used. At Marquette Home Care, we can help ensure your loved one uses their medications correctly and safely and feels supported when it comes to these essential drugs.
Taking Medication Properly With Help From Your Healthcare Provider
It should come as no surprise that medication should be taken in the way it was prescribed by a doctor or healthcare professional. When a prescription is given, your loved one’s doctor will consider several factors, including any allergies your family member may have and any potential interactions this new prescription will have with an existing prescription. Taking medication in a way that was not intended or prescribed can result in dangerous reactions or side effects. It can also lead to the misuse and even abuse of medications.
If your senior loved one has a difficult time remembering how to correctly take their medications, Marquette Home Care can coordinate with their doctors and pharmacists to ensure you and your family member have the tools to ensure they are taking the right medications at the right dose, and at the right time.
Store Your Medications Correctly
Another tip for ensuring the safe use of medications includes having proper storage. Medicines that are not stored correctly can cause harm or fail to work in the way they were intended. When your loved one is prescribed medication, it can help to read the information provided to learn of any unique storage requirements. You will also want to ensure that all expired medications are properly disposed of. For some seniors aging in place, expired medications can cause more harm than good, especially for individuals suffering from a serious or life-threatening condition.
Keep a Record of all Medicines
It is important to keep a record of all medications your senior loved one is currently taking, including all their prescribed drugs, herbal or dietary supplements, and vitamins. Maintaining a record can help keep you and your loved one informed and provide new or existing healthcare providers with up-to-date documentation. There are also several medication-tracking apps that can be used to ensure safety and improve patient outcomes.
Rely on Marquette Home Care for Medication Support
If your senior loved one needs extra support in their medication usage, Marquette Home Care can be of service. Our team offers a wide range of services for medication management, including managing refills, coordinating with the doctor’s office and pharmacy to help set up new medications and fill medications weekly, and ensuring medications are properly tracked and stored in the home.
We serve clients across the Marquette area, including Ishpeming, Negaunee, Harvey, Skandia, and Gwinn. If you have questions about how to support your loved one in the safe usage of their medications, contact us today at 906-361-8022.
